The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet uses the graduated licensing program (GLP) to ease new drivers into the process of obtaining a Kentucky driver’s license.

As part of this program, there are specific rules and requirements for drivers younger than 18 years old. To begin, you will need to attend a driver’s education course and obtain your learner’s permit. See “KY Graduated Licensing Program” below.

New to Kentucky?

You have 30 days to transfer your out-of-state driver’s license after moving to Kentucky. To obtain your Kentucky driver’s license or learner’s permit, you must be:

Full unrestricted driver’s license: Eligible after holding an intermediate/provisional license for 180 days.

Kentucky Learner’s Permit

You must be at least
16 years old to apply for your Kentucky learner’s permit. Be sure to study the KY driver’s manual to prepare for the DMV written test. If you want to enhance your chances of passing the exam on your first attempt we suggest trying an online practice test from our certified partner.

If you do not pass the DMV road test, you must wait at least
1 week to retake it. If you fail the road test 6 times, you’ll need to wait an additional 6 months.

Contact your Kentucky
circuit court clerk directly for more information on how to apply for an intermediate driver’s license, including related fees.

Provisional License Restrictions

Drivers under
18 years old who hold an intermediate driver’s license in Kentucky may NOT drive:

Between 12 a.m. and 6 a.m. except in emergencies, and school- or work-related activities.

With more than 1 passenger who is unrelated and younger than 20 years old.

Full Unrestricted KY Driver's License

If you’re under 18 years old with an intermediate driver’s license, you must complete
one of the following driver’s education programs before applying for a full, unrestricted driver’s license in Kentucky:

You will also need to complete 60 hours of
behind-the-wheel driving practice, including 10 hours at night.

Once you’ve completed the above and held your Kentucky provisional license
for a minimum of 180 days, you’re able to apply for your Kentucky driver’s license. You must visit your county circuit court clerk and: